Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ginny Brennan, Co-Owner of One Affirmation, located in Colleyville, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
One-Affirmation is a family-owned company. We specialize in designer pillows, handcrafted from the highest quality textiles from skilled makers around the world. Our mission is two-fold as we create and source functional art for home—the most sacred of spaces—and empower our global artisans through supplemental income and ethical partnerships. Our customers are females who want to make their homes look and feel beautiful, as well as live in.
Tell us about yourself
I love to travel and was very inspired to work with artisans from other countries. It was a trip I took in 2015 that inspired me to take the plunge and start a small business with my sister. We weren't exactly sure what we wanted to do, but after seeing some of the gorgeous textiles I brought back on that trip, we both taught ourselves how to sew by watching youtube videos, and the rest is history. I am motivated every day by being creative. Fun fact: I was an actress in my former life but left the business in 2011 to pursue other interests. Being creative is what makes me feel alive and I truly love what I do.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We just moved into our first office/warehouse after shipping out of our garage for 6 years. I feel so proud when my kids come to work with me and see what we have built. Teaching them about hard work is my biggest accomplishment as a business owner.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is figuring out how to not spread yourself too thin with all the things. I found myself working 12+ hour days just trying to do it all. Hiring help was the best decision I ever made. I am not an expert at SEO, and even though I love learning everything, there comes a point when you just need to hire out help from those who are experts.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Building a business means being a student of life. You can learn how to do anything thanks to the Internet. If you ever don't know how to do something, just google it.
- Outsource. If you want to grow your business, you must hire help in the areas in which you are not an expert.
- Fear is the only thing holding you back. Take that leap, and you will be amazed at what happens.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.oneaffirmation.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oneaffirmationshop/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/one_affirmation/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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